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· 2 min read · updated

How to register your child on the childcare registration portal (formerly La Place 0-5)

Québec's single window for daycare spots: what it's for, when to register your child and how to improve your chances of getting a spot.

In short

Spots in subsidized daycares and CPEs are given only through the Québec government's childcare registration portal, which replaced La Place 0-5. You register your child once, ideally during pregnancy, and choose the daycares you want.

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In Québec, spots in subsidized daycares and CPEs aren't obtained by calling the daycare: they all go through a single government window, the childcare registration portal. It replaced La Place 0-5.

What is the registration portal for?

The portal holds the waiting list for every childcare service that takes part. You register your child once, then choose the daycares you're interested in. When a spot opens, the daycare contacts you.

When should I register my child?

As early as possible. You can register your child even before birth, during pregnancy. Spots are given out on several criteria, including registration date, so waiting only pushes your place back in line.

How do I register, step by step?

  • Create your file on the Québec government portal.
  • Enter the date you'll need a spot and the number of days a week.
  • Choose the daycares you want, near home or work.
  • Keep your file up to date: a change of address or start date can change the spots you're offered.

What can I do while I wait for a spot?

The wait can be long. Many families choose a non-subsidized daycare to start when they need to, while staying registered on the portal. Thanks to the tax credit, the net cost is often closer than people think: run the numbers.

Sources

Frequently asked questions

It was replaced by the Québec government's childcare registration portal, which plays the same single-window role.

Yes. You can register during pregnancy, and doing it early is recommended.

No. Subsidized spots are offered only to children registered on the portal.